Posture training device

ABSTRACT

Sensory indication modules intimately associated with a surface for detection of angle relative to true vertical and acceleration, and include feedback indicators for communicating localized information in relation to the detected angle and acceleration. Further included is a control module for communicating command and control instructions with the sensory indication modules.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to monitoring apparatuses and methods for usingand constructing the same. And, more particularly, to monitoringapparatuses and methods for posture training to condition and encouragedesired posture practice for a given activity.

2. Description of Related Art

Conventional back posture training devices have been known and used formany years. Most conventional back posture training devices suffer fromvarious disadvantages in that they attempt to correct back posture byattempting to correct only the relationship (e.g., orientation) of thevarious segments of the spine relative to one another, while ignoringthe orientation of the whole spine in relation to the rest of the bodyand in relation to true earth vertical. In other words, the segments ofthe spine may have correct relationships with respect to one another,but the entire spine may be at an incorrect angle leaning forward,backward, or be at one side while the individual segments within thewhole of spine continue to maintain their correct respectiverelationships. Most conventional back posture training devices would notinfer as bad posture if the segments of the spine maintain the correctrelationships while the whole of the spine is leaning forward, backward,or is at one side. This could result in chronic sharp back pain.

Accordingly, in light of the current state of the art and the drawbacksto current conventional back posture training devices, a need exists fora posture training device that would correct posture in relation to areference for a given activity.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides anapparatus, comprising: sensory indication modules intimately associatedwith a surface for detection of angle relative to true vertical andacceleration, and includes feedback indicators for communicatinginformation in relation to the detected angle and movement. Furtherincluded is a control module for communicating command and controlinstructions with the sensory indication modules.

An exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides anapparatus, wherein: the sensory indication modules are encapsulatedwithin a soft casing.

Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides anapparatus, wherein: the control module includes a controllerencapsulation layer.

Yet another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention providesan apparatus, wherein: the sensory indication modules and the controlmodule include a set of fastener mechanisms for detachable coupling thesensory indication modules and the control module with a module support.

Still another exemplary optional aspect of the present inventionprovides an apparatus, wherein: the set of fastener mechanisms providepower and communications signals between sensory indication modules, thecontrol module, and other devices.

A further exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides anapparatus, wherein: the surface is a vertebra, and the sensoryindication modules are intimately associated with the vertebra by amodule support.

Still a further exemplary optional aspect of the present inventionprovides an apparatus, wherein: the module support is comprised of oneof a garment and a strap.

Yet a further exemplary optional aspect of the present inventionprovides an apparatus, wherein: the module support is comprised of oneof a garment and a strap with embedded wiring.

Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides anapparatus, wherein: the module support further includes a cover thatcovers the sensory indication modules and interconnections, preventingthe sensory indication modules and the interconnections from snaggingwith other elements. The cover includes a set of cover fasteners thatcoupled the cover with the module support.

A further exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides anapparatus, wherein: the strap includes sensory indication moduleadjustment fasteners to enable adjustment of the position of the sensoryindication modules along the strap.

Yet another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention providesan apparatus, wherein: the control module and at least one sensoryindication module are integrated as a single unit.

A further exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides anapparatus, wherein: the feedback indicator is a vibration mechanism.

Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides anapparatus, wherein: the sensors are miniaturized multi-axisaccelerometers.

Still a further exemplary optional aspect of the present inventionprovides an apparatus, wherein: the control module includes a PrintedCircuit Board assembly, including:

-   -   a microprocessor;    -   communication unit that enables the control module to        communicate with sensory indication modules and external        devices;    -   a power source; and    -   an interactive unit for activating the control module, setting        references and manipulation of the control module.

Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides anapparatus, wherein: the control module and the sensory indicationmodules include a communication unit that enables communication betweenthe modules and external devices.

A further exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides anapparatus, wherein: sensory indication modules intimately associatedwith a vertebra for detection of orientation and acceleration of thevertebra, the sensory indication modules include:

-   -   an identification (ID) mechanism for identifying a sensory        indication module that generates a unique analog ID signal;    -   a sensor for sensing the angle of the vertebra in relation to        true earth vertical and acceleration, and generating a first        analog signal;    -   an Analog to Digital Converter (ADC) for digitizing the analog        ID signal and the first analog signal for processing by a        microprocessor;    -   a sensor activation mechanism for periodically activating the        sensor for detection;    -   a memory unit for storing data for use by the microprocessor and        for storing detected angles and references;    -   a timer for synchronization of various functionalities of the        sensory indication modules;    -   sensory indication module communication unit for communication        of signals with the microprocessor and external devices;    -   a feedback indicators for communicating improper angular        orientation of the vertebra with which the identified sensory        indication module is associated.

Still another exemplary optional aspect of the present inventionprovides an apparatus, wherein: the ID mechanism is an impedance thatgenerates the unique analog ID signal that identifies the sensoryindication module for unique association of the identified sensoryindication module with a specific vertebra.

Yet another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention providesan apparatus, wherein: the sensor is a miniaturized multi-axisaccelerometer.

A further exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides anapparatus, wherein: the sensory indication module communication unit isasynchronous receiver transmitter.

Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides anapparatus, wherein: the feedback indicator is a vibration motor that isactuated by a vibration actuator based on a command from themicroprocessor.

A further exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides anapparatus, comprising: a control module for communicating command andcontrol instructions, the control module includes:

-   -   an interactive unit for activating the control module and for        setting references;    -   a microcontroller with an associated program memory having fixed        set of instructions, a non-volatile memory, and a Random Access        Memory (RAM);    -   a timer;    -   communication unit that enables the control module to        communicate with the microcontroller and external devices;    -   power source provides power to the control module and external        devices.

Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides anapparatus, wherein: the external device is a sensor and a feedbackindicator.

Yet Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention providesan apparatus, wherein: the microcontroller activates all sensorstogether via an electronic switch.

A further exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides anapparatus, comprising: sensory indication modules intimately associatedwith a surface for detection of angle and acceleration, and includesindicators for communicating information in relation to the detectedangle and acceleration;

-   -   control module for communicating command and control        instructions with the sensory indication modules;    -   a power bus and a single wire serial bus that couple the control        module with sensory indication modules.

Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides anapparatus, comprising: sensory indication modules intimately associatedwith the vertebra for detection of angle and acceleration of thevertebra, the sensory indication modules include:

-   -   a sensor for sensing the orientation of the vertebra in terms        angle and acceleration in relation to true earth vertical, and        generating a first analog signal;    -   a feedback indicator for communicating improper angular        orientation of the vertebra with which the identified sensory        indication module is associated;    -   a control module for communicating command and control        instructions with the sensory indication modules, the control        module includes:    -   an interactive unit for activating the control module and for        setting references.    -   a microcontroller with an associated program memory having fixed        set of instructions, a non-volatile memory, and a Random Access        Memory (RAM);    -   a timer;    -   communication unit that enables the control module to        communicate with external devices; and    -   power source that provides power to the control module, the        sensory indication modules, and external devices.

Still another exemplary optional aspect of the present inventionprovides an apparatus, comprising: sensory indication modules thatinclude a microprocessor;

-   -   the microprocessor periodically determines if there is a wake up        command from a microcontroller of a control module;    -   if the microprocessor determines that there is no wake up        command from the microcontroller of the control module, the        microprocessor reverts back to sleep mode;    -   if the microprocessor determines that there is a wake up command        from the microcontroller of the control module, the        microprocessor is activated, which, in turn, activates a sensor        for a first duration, and clears receiver buffer;    -   the microprocessor determines if there is a new command received        from the microcontroller;    -   if the microprocessor determines that no new command is received        from the microcontroller, the microprocessor reads angles of a        vertebra through a sensor, saves the read angles, and determines        if the first duration has expired;    -   if the microprocessor determines that the first duration has        expired, the apparatus is entered into a low power sleep mode by        the microcontroller of the control module;    -   if the microprocessor determines that the first duration has not        expired, the receiver buffer is cleared, and the microprocessor        determines if a new command is received from the        microcontroller;    -   if the microprocessor determines that a new command is received        from the microcontroller, the microprocessor checks the received        command ID to determine if the received command from the        microcontroller is intended for the sensor to which the received        command is sent;    -   if the microprocessor determines that the command received from        the microcontroller is intended for the sensor to which the        command is sent, the microprocessor determines if the command        received is an angle query command; otherwise, the receiver        buffer is cleared;    -   if the microprocessor determines that command received is an        angle query command, the microprocessor sends the saved sensed        angular orientations to the microcontroller, and the receiver        buffer is cleared;    -   if the microprocessor determines that command received is not        the angle query command, the microprocessor determines if the        command received is a command to activate an indicator;    -   if the microprocessor determines that command received is a        command to activate the indicator, a second duration is set for        activation of the indicator, the indicator is activated for the        second duration, and the microcontroller enters the apparatus        into a low power sleep mode;    -   if the microprocessor determines that command received is not a        command to activate the indicator, the microprocessor determines        if the command received is a reset command;    -   if the microprocessor determines that command received is a        reset command, the microprocessor clears and resets all        registers, and the microcontroller enters the apparatus into a        low power sleep mode.

A further exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides anapparatus, comprising: a control module that includes a microcontroller,which is generally in a power save mode for a first adaptive timeperiod, with a duration of the first adaptive time period varyingdepending on responses from external devices;

-   -   the microcontroller periodically determines if the first        adaptive time period has expired;    -   if the microcontroller determines that the first adaptive time        period has not expired, the microcontroller determines if an        interactive unit has been actuated for one of a first and second        actuation durations, with the first actuation duration shorter        than the second actuation duration;    -   if microcontroller determines that the interactive unit has not        been actuated for one of the first and second actuation        durations, the microcontroller maintain the power save mode;    -   if the microcontroller determines that the interactive unit has        been actuated for second actuation duration while the first        adaptive time period has not expired, the microcontroller        deactivates the first adaptive time period, and places the        apparatus to OFF mode;    -   when the apparatus is OFF, if microcontroller determines that        the interactive unit has not been actuated for one of the first        and second actuation durations, the microcontroller and the        entire apparatus remain OFF;    -   further, when the apparatus is OFF, if the interactive unit has        been actuated for second actuation duration, the microcontroller        is activated, recalls saved users preferences, and activates the        first adaptive time period; if the interactive unit has been        actuated for first actuation duration, the microcontroller only        activates the first adaptive time period, and enters the power        save mode;    -   if the microcontroller determines that one of the first adaptive        time period has expired and the interactive unit has been        actuated for the first actuation durations, the microcontroller        forwards a first command to external devices;    -   the microcontroller further forwards a first query to the        external devices, and receives a first response to the first        query;    -   the microcontroller determines if the first response has been        received from all external devices; if the microcontroller        determines that the first response has been received from all        external devices, the microcontroller determines if the        interactive unit has been actuated for the first actuation        durations;    -   if microcontroller determines that the interactive unit has not        been actuated for the first actuation durations; the        microcontroller determines if a user preferred reference is set;    -   if microcontroller determines that user preferred reference is        not set; an indicator is activated and the first adaptive time        period is modified for a longer duration, increasing the        duration of the power save mode of the microcontroller;    -   if microcontroller determines that user preferred reference is        set, the microcontroller compares received responses with user        preferred references; if received responses are commensurate        with user preferred references, the first adaptive time period        is modified for a longer duration, increasing the duration of        the power save mode of the microcontroller, otherwise, an        indicator is activated and the first adaptive time period is        modified for a shorter duration;    -   if microcontroller determines that the interactive unit has been        actuated for the first actuation durations; the microcontroller        sets received responses from external devices as user preferred        reference.

Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention provides anapparatus, wherein: set user preferences are communicated externally fordisplay and analysis.

Yet Another exemplary optional aspect of the present invention providesan apparatus, wherein: comparing the received responses with userpreferred references includes:

-   -   obtaining a plurality of responses Data(Ta), Data(Tb), . . .        Data(Tm) at different time intervals Ta, Tb, . . . Tm, with m an        integer interval;    -   calculating an average AVG of the plurality of responses        obtained at different time intervals:

AVG(Channel)=(Data(Ta)+Data(Ta)+ . . . +Data(Tm))/m;

-   -   calculating simple deviations from the average of the plurality        of responses obtained at different time intervals;

Δ(Ta)=ABS(AVG(Channel)−Data(Ta))

Δ(Tb)=ABS(AVG(Channel)−Data(Tb))

Δ(Tm)=ABS(AVG(Channel)−Data(Tm))

-   -   determining the maximum deviation MAX DEV;

MAX DEV (Channel)=MAX (Δ(Ta), Δ(Tb), . . . Δ(Tm));

-   -   repeat for every channel;    -   the microcontroller determines if the AVG(Channel) or the MAX        DEV (Channel) are outside defined maximum parameters, and if so,        set the first adaptive time period duration and disable the        feedback indicators;    -   otherwise, microcontroller determines if AVG(Channel) is outside        the user set preferences; if the microcontroller determines that        AVG(Channel) is outside the user set preferences,        microcontroller determines which specific parameter within        AVG(Channel) is outside user set preference, and generates a        unique indicator specifically associated with that parameter,        and sets the first adaptive time period duration to a shorter        duration;    -   otherwise, set the first adaptive time period duration to an        average duration.

Such stated advantages of the invention are only examples and should notbe construed as limiting the present invention. These and otherfeatures, aspects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent tothose skilled in the art from the following detailed description ofpreferred non-limiting exemplary embodiments, taken together with thedrawings and the claims that follow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

It is to be understood that the drawings are to be used for the purposesof exemplary illustration only and not as a definition of the limits ofthe invention. Throughout the disclosure, the word “exemplary” is usedexclusively to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.”Any embodiment described as “exemplary” is not necessarily to beconstrued as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

Referring to the drawings in which like reference character(s) presentcorresponding part(s) throughout:

FIG. 1 is an exemplary illustration of the human vertebral column andassociated sensory indication modules and a control module in accordancewith the present invention.

FIGS. 2A to 2D are an exemplary illustrations of a module support forfacilitating an intimate association of a sensory indication module witha specific vertebra of a spine;

FIGS. 3A to 3D are an exemplary illustrations of another module supportfor facilitating an intimate association of a sensory indication modulewith a specific vertebra of a spine;

FIG. 4 is an exemplary illustration of an exemplary physicalimplementation of a sensory indication module in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 5 is an exemplary illustration of an exemplary physicalimplementation of a control module in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 6A is an exemplary, general, schematic overview illustration of theposture training device, including a sensory indication modules and acontrol module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 6B is an exemplary schematic illustration of one specificimplementation of the posture training device that is generallyillustrated in FIG. 6A in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 7 is an exemplary schematic block diagram of a sensory indicationmodule in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8 is an exemplary schematic block diagram of a control module inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 9 is an exemplary schematic block diagram of another sensoryindication module and control module in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIGS. 10A and 10B are exemplary flow diagrams of the functionality ofthe sensory indication modules in accordance with the present invention;and

FIGS. 11A to 11D are exemplary flow diagrams of the functionality of thecontrol module in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appendeddrawings is intended as a description of presently preferred embodimentsof the invention and is not intended to represent the only forms inwhich the present invention may be constructed and or utilized.

For purposes of illustration, programs and other executable programcomponents are illustrated herein as discrete blocks, although it isrecognized that such programs and components may reside at various timesin different storage components, and are executed by the dataprocessor(s) of the computers. Further, each block within a flowchartmay represent both method function(s), operation(s), or act(s) and oneor more elements for performing the method function(s), operation(s), oract(s). In addition, depending upon the implementation, thecorresponding one or more elements may be configured in hardware,software, firmware, or combinations thereof.

For the sake of convenience and clarity, this disclosure defines theterm posture as the body position as a whole at a given moment. Further,and also for the sake of convenience and clarity, this disclosuredefines good posture as the proper or appropriate body position as awhole at a given moment for a given activity, such as proper posture forthe exemplary, non-limiting activities of standing, sitting, walking,jumping, kneeling, or proper posture for various golf swings. It shouldbe noted that references to human body and, in particular, humanvertebra throughout the disclosure are meant as illustrative and forconvenience of example, only. The present invention may be used fortraining proper posture for dogs or other animals, and may also be usedfor proper posture training for proper use of hands, arms, or legs for aparticular activity and therefore, is not limited to humans or humanvertebrae.

Most people by training or naturally perform an activity with theappropriate posture for that activity when they consciously realize thattheir body has an incorrect posture for the activity being performed.For example, most people naturally stand straight with a good posturewhen they consciously realize that their back is not straight. However,because of the countless daily distractions this awareness fades and theappropriate posture for the given activity gradually deteriorates. Ifnot corrected, the bad posture worsens over time and may lead topermanent deformation of the spine and back pain in the exemplaryinstance of improper posture for the activity of standing, sitting, orthe deterioration of performance of the activity (such as a poor golfswing due to improper posture).

With the present invention, users may orient (or position) their body toa proper posture for the given activity and save that proper posture asa preferred reference posture for that activity, with the presentinvention faithfully reminding users to always maintain the preferredposture if the body posture (position) deviates from it. For example,with the present invention users may stand naturally straight and savethat posture as preferred reference posture for standing, with thepresent invention faithfully reminding them to always maintain thepreferred reference posture if the body posture deviates from it. Withregular use of the present invention, the users train the muscles tosubconsciously hold that preferred reference posture, even after thepresent invention is no longer worn. With severe cases of deformity or auser new to a given activity, and with the supervision of a physician, aphysical therapist, or a trainer, users may consciously work thespecific muscles using the present invitation to incrementally andgradually correct their posture for the given activity. That is, insevere cases (or if the user is new to the activity) where thecorrection may be too drastic to achieve in one step, the presentinvention may be used to gradually correct and train for good posturefor a given activity in multiple steps. At every step, the appropriateposture is saved and the muscles are gradually trained to finallyachieve correct posture for the given activity.

The present invention provides a posture training device that correctsposture in relation to a reference. More specifically, the presentinvention provides a posture training device that corrects posture inrelation to a true earth vertical. The present disclosure defines a truevertical direction as a direction locally aligned with the gradient ofthe gravity field, that is, with the direction of the gravitationalforce (per unit mass) at that point. The present invention uses small,lightweight accelerometers as angle sensors that simultaneously measurestatic angle relative to true earth vertical and acceleration in X, Y,and Z axis. The accelerometers used as angle sensors in accordance withthe present invention accurately measure the acceleration of the earthgravity on a surface and, therefore, can measure angles relative to trueearth vertical. Further integrated circuits are used that incorporatethree accelerometers precisely positioned to measure angles andaccelerations along three orthogonal axis, in the X (orforward-backward) and Y (or left-right inclination) from true verticaland Z (or up-down) accelerations. Accordingly, the present inventionprovides sensory indication modules that are intimately associated witha surface for detection of angles relative to true vertical andacceleration, and includes feedback indicators (stimulus or stimulationmodule) for communicating information in relation to the detected anglesand acceleration of the surface with which the sensory indicationmodules are associated, with the user. The present invention combinesthe high performance accelerometers with algorithms and electronics tocreate a posture correction training device that is easy to wear on adaily basis and provides true posture correction for users for a givenactivity. The present invention further provides at least one controlmodule for communicating command and control instructions with thesensory indication modules, including the activation of the feedbackindicators (or stimulations) for correction of posture for a givenactivity. The present invention makes use of multiple feedbackindicators (or stimulation mechanisms) that are placed at eachmeasurement location to accurately alert users of the specific locationof the body that needs correction for the given activity, and instructsthe users with respect to the manner of correcting the posture.

FIG. 1 is an exemplary illustration of the posture training deviceassociated with human vertebra, including a set of sensory indicationmodules and a control module in accordance with the present invention.As illustrated, the spine 102 relies on the natural lordodic 108 andkyphotic 110 curvatures as well as the true vertical 112 posture tocomfortably bear the weight of the upper body. Any unnatural deviationfrom the true vertical 112 will cause the back muscles to compensate andunevenly bear a large amount of weight, resulting in chronic sharp backpain. The present invention intimately associates a number of sensoryindication modules 100 with the illustrated vertebra 102 via a modulesupport 120 for detection of angles α of a specified vertebra relativeto the true vertical 112 and the acceleration of that particularvertebra, and includes feedback indicators (not shown in FIG. 1) forcommunicating information in relation to the detected angle andacceleration with the users. The number of sensory indication modules100 may be varied, and should not be limited to the exemplary fivesensory indication modules 100 illustrated. Further illustrated is acontrol module 104 for communicating via an appropriate communicationprotocol 106 command and control instructions with the sensoryindication modules 100.

As exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1, the sensory indication modules 100are positioned on the users' back via the module support 120 along thelength of the vertebral column 102. More specifically, the sensoryindication modules 100 are associated with vertebrae in the thoracic,lumbar, and sacrum sections of a spinal column 102 for detection ofangle and acceleration thereof. One or more sensory indication modules100 are associated with upper, middle, and lower segments of thethoracic section of the spinal column 102. The upper, middle, and lowersegments of the thoracic section of the spinal column 102 arerespectively comprised of first through fourth, fifth through eight, andninth through twelfth thoracic vertebra.

As further illustrated, each sensory indication module 100 is heldagainst the user's back (via a module support 120) such that modules 100are free to rotate with the vertebra directly underneath and report thatparticular vertebra angle in X, Y, and Z directions relative to truevertical. This unique combination of miniature sensors arranged in aline along the vertebral column 102 allows the accurate measurement ofthe angle of select vertebra in the vertebral column 102 starting at thetop of the thoracic section or T1 vertebra, down to the pelvis. With theexemplary five sensor implementation the angles of T1, T5, T10, L2,vertebra and the pelvis (by way of the sacrum, which is attached to thepelvis) are measured. Of course, due to variability between users and inusage, the actual measurement points in terms of location and number ofsensory indication modules 100 used will vary. This variation does notaffect the functionality of the present invention, as described below.The analog signals representing the measured X, Y, and Z angles ofaccelerometer sensors (not shown in FIG. 1) of the sensory indicationmodules 100 are converted to digital form for digital processing in amicrocontroller of the control module 104, and correction signals arecommunicated via the communication protocol 106 with the particularsensory indication module 100 that is associated with the specificvertebra. For example, vibration motors as the feedback indicators thatmay be incorporated inside each sensor indication module 100 may be usedas one feedback method to alert or stimulate the users that the angle ofa specific sensor is off and therefore the posture related to thespecific vertebra needs to be corrected. Users may control the device ofthe present invention through an interactive unit (not shown in FIG. 1)that may be part of the controller module 104 or coupled through awireless link with a Personal Digital Accessory, a cell phone, or otherexternal device.

FIGS. 2A to 2D are an exemplary illustrations of a module support forfacilitating the intimate association of the sensory indication modulewith a specific vertebra of a spine. Non-limiting examples of a modulesupport 120 may include a garment 202 in the form an exemplary tightfitting undershirt (FIGS. 2A to 2D), a strap 302 (FIGS. 3A to 3D), orthe like. Non-limiting examples of materials or fabric for the garment202 or the strap 302 may include a blend of elastic, synthetic, andnatural fibers, including lycra, spandex, polyester, cotton, or anycombinations thereof, or the like. In fact, any material may be used solong as the module support 120 for the sensory indication modules 100 istight fitting, flexible material that grips the body so that the sensoryindication modules 100 are positioned close to the associated vertebra,but sufficiently flexible that would enable movement of the sensoryindication modules 100 in relation to the movement of the spine 102.Stated otherwise, the alignment of the sensory indication modules 100must closely conform to the contour of the spine 102. In addition, giventheir intimate physical proximity to human body, it is preferable if thesensory indication modules 100 and or the control module 104 areencapsulated within an entirely liquid impermeable material for safety.This way, the posture training device of the present invention may evenbe used by swimmers for training of appropriate posture for a given swimstroke.

As illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 2D, the sensory indication modules 100 maybe intimately associated with vertebra 102 by connection to the modulesupport 120 in the form of the exemplary garment 202, such as theillustrated tight fitting undershirt that may be worn by users. Asexemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 2D, the sensory indicationmodules 100 are intimately associated with and aligned along thevertebra 102 to closely parallel and mimic angle and acceleration of thevertebra 102 during an activity. This way, the intimate physicalproximity of the sensory indication modules 100 with the vertebra 102enables the sensory indication modules 100 to be in sync with the angleand acceleration of the vertebra 102 for accurate reading of anglesrelative to true vertical, including acceleration thereof.

As best illustrated in the exemplary FIG. 2C, the module support 120 (inthe form of the garment 202) may further include a cover 206 that coversthe sensory indication modules 100 and interconnections (if wires areused), preventing the sensory indication modules 100 and theinterconnections from snagging with other clothing. The cover 206includes a set of cover fasteners 208 that coupled the cover 206 withthe garment 202. The cover 206 may be comprised of the same fabric asthe module support 120, placed over the sensory indication modules 100and interconnections.

As illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 2D and, in particular FIG. 2D, the sensoryindication modules 100 are detachably coupled with the back of the tightfitting garment 202 via a set of module support fasteners 210. The setof module support fasteners 210 may be coupled with the module support210 by any well known manner, non-limiting examples of which may includesowing, use of glue or adhesive, etc., and aligned with an associatedvertebra of the users. The spacing between the sensory indicationmodules 100 may vary, and depend on size of the module support 202 forenabling appropriate alignment of each sensory indication module 100with an associated vertebra. That is, the position or placement ofsensory indication modules 100 may vary commensurate with the size ofthe person, with each sensor independent of the other. This can beeasily achieved by simply varying the location, placement, or spacing ofthe set of module support fasteners 210 along the back of the modulesupport 120.

As best illustrated in FIG. 2D, the set of module support fasteners 210on the module support 120 include a base portion 212 that is semi-rigid,which facilitates a better contact between the sensory indicationmodules 100 and the module support 202 when the sensory indicationmodules 100 are detachably mounted onto the set of module supportfasteners 210. The base portion 212 provides a greater surface contactarea with the flexible module support 120 underneath. That is, the baseportion 212 widens the contacting surface area with the module support202, and allows the detachably mounted sensory indication modules 100 tobetter follow the movement (angle) of the surface of the back,underneath. Non-limiting, exemplary set of module support fasteners 210used may further include male snaps 216 protruded from the base 212 thatcan be used to detachably couple sensory indication modules 100 (thatmay have a corresponding set of female snaps). The set of module supportfasteners 210 may comprise of any material, including plastics orelectrically conductive material such as metal. The set of modulesupport fasteners 210 may be such that the male snaps 216 thereon mayprovide power and communications signals between sensory indicationmodules 100, the control module 104, and other external devices. Thatis, the module support 120 may be wired (with or without embeddedwiring) so that each module support fastener 210 can have anelectrical/signal connection with other module support fasteners 210.

As best illustrated in FIG. 2B, the control module 104 may be coupledwith the module support 120 in an appropriate or desired positionsimilar to sensory indication modules 100. That is, both the sensoryindication modules 100 and the control module 104 may include respectiveset of fastener mechanisms for detachable coupling the sensoryindication modules 100 and the control module 104 with a module support202. Alternatively, the module support 202 may include a compartment forhousing the control module 104, which can be in the form of a pocket. Asfurther illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 2C, the communication protocol 106used between the sensory indication module 100 and the control module104 may be in the exemplary form of electrical connections betweensensory indication modules 100 and the control module 104 and be of atype of cable that uses a flexible jacket such as neoprene and carriesindividual stranded wires for added flexibility.

FIGS. 3A to 3E are exemplary illustrations of another module support forfacilitating the intimate association of the sensory indication modulewith a specific vertebra of a spine. As best illustrated in FIGS. 3A to3E, the module support 120 illustrated is in the form of an exemplarystrap, suspenders, or elastic bands 302 that may include embeddedwiring, just as the tight fitting garment 202. Sections of the elasticbands 302 (the strap—woven, knit or braided using natural and syntheticfibers) connect the sensory indication modules 100 together and holdthem in place. Electrical wires 304 embedded inside the elastic bands302 (FIG. 3D) carry power and data signals between all the sensoryindication modules 100 and the control modules 104. This linear array ofsensory indication modules 100 interconnected by thin, flexible andelastic bands 302 may comfortably be worn by users. As best illustratedin FIG. 3A (user back), FIG. 3B (user chest—front), and FIG. 3C (userprofile), straps run over the shoulders on each side of the users andmeet again at front (FIG. 3B) at a central semi-rigid polymer chestelement 306 at the chest 308 of the user. Two additional elastic waiststraps 302 are detachably coupled by a coupler 312 at the bottom of thechest element 306, wrapped around the waste and meet at the back (FIG.3A), with a sensory indication module 100 located over the lumbarsection.

The shoulder and waist straps 302 are adjustable using adjusters 310 toaccommodate different size users and together with the chest element 306hold the sensory indication modules 100 against the back along thenatural kyphotic 110 curve of the thoracic vertebra. The sensoryindication modules 100 located further down from the waist strapattachment point follow the natural curve of the lower back but may alsorely on a tight fitting undershirt or garment to stay in place.

As further illustrated in FIG. 3E, in addition to adjusters 310 toenable adjustment of the strap in relation to a size of a users, thesensory indication modules 100 may further include sensory adjusters 330to enable adjustment of the position of the sensory indication modules100 along a reciprocating direction 332 on the strap 302. That is,sensory indication modules 100 can ride along the strap and can movealong the strap length so that they can be aligned and adjusted usingthe sensory adjusters 330. Accordingly, the same size strap withadjusters 310 and the same number of sensory indication modules 100 canbe manufactured in high volume to lower manufacturing costs, but stillmaintain the flexibility in terms of alignment of the sensory indicationmodules 100 along the strap, and hence, along the vertebra of differentsize users. As further illustrated, users control the posture trainingdevice of the present invention by the control module 104, which isincorporated inside the chest element 306 through an interactive unit204.

FIG. 4 is an exemplary illustration of a physical implementation of asensory indication module in accordance with the present invention. Asillustrated, the sensory indication modules 100 (including all internalcomponents that are detailed below in relation to FIG. 7) areencapsulated within a soft casing 402, which makes touch of the sensoryindication modules 100 against the skin or body of users comfortable.Non-limiting examples of materials for casing 402 may include asemi-rigid polymer resin.

As further illustrated in FIG. 4, the sensory indication modules mayinclude exemplary fastener mechanism 412 included with the casing 402that may be used to couple the sensory indication modules 100 with acorresponding set of module support fasteners 210 that include theexemplary set of male snaps 216. That is, the female snaps 412 of thesensory indication modules 100 snap onto the male snaps 216 that arecoupled at appropriate locations on the module support 120. The set ofmodule support fasteners 210 and the fastener mechanism 412 may be suchthat they may provide power and communications signals between sensoryindication modules 100, the control module 104, and other externaldevices. It should be noted and apparent to those of ordinary skill thatthe number and the manner of coupling a sensory indication module 100and a control module 104 with a module support 120 is too numerous tomention individually, and should not be limited to those illustrated anddescribed.

As further illustrated, in this exemplary instance, the communicationsprotocol 106 exemplarity illustrated as flexible wires 414 that connectthe plurality of sensor indication modules 100 together and to controlmodule 104. The exemplary wires 414 may carry power to the sensoryindication modules 100 and communication data to the control module 104.In this exemplary instance, the power for the sensory indication modules100 may be obtained from the control module 104, eliminating the needfor a power source, which enables the true miniaturization of thesensory indication modules 100.

Internal the casing 402, the sensory indication modules 100 arecomprised of the accelerometer sensors 404, the feedback indicator 408,and other components (described in detail below in relation to FIG. 7).The accelerometer sensor 404, the feedback indicator 408, and othercomponents (detailed in FIG. 7 and described below) are positioned(mounted) on a single Printed Circuit Board (PCB) 406, which issupported by a frame 410. The frame 410 (which may be a housing) isgenerally comprised of a rigid resin with the PCB 406 mounted onto (orwithin) the frame 410. Accordingly, the main rigidity of the sensoryindication modules 100 is within, which is a function of the frame (orinternal housing) 410 of the modules 100. It should be noted that thepresent invention has a calibration and setting system (described below)that enable and can calibrate and set the perpendicular orientation ofthe sensors in relation to any surface to obtain the true vertical.Accordingly, the mounting orientation of the accelerometer sensors 404in relation to the frame 410 may be varied.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary illustration of a physical implementation of acontrol module in accordance with the present invention. As illustrated,the control module 104 is incased within a semi-rigid polymer resincontroller encapsulation layer (or potting) 502. Although illustrated asan individual and separate module from the sensory indication modules100, the control module 104 and at least one sensory indication module100 may be combined into a single integrated unitary module. That is,one sensory indication module 100 can also include the entire controlmodule itself as a single unitary module where that one sensoryindication module 100 also functions as a control module in relation tothe remaining sensory indication modules. In addition, the entirecontrol module may be implemented into each of the sensory indicationmodules 100. That is, each sensory indication module 100 (and not justone) may include all the components of the control module 104. However,limitation for an integral, single unitary embodiment is the powersource that would be required to power the components of the controlmodule 104 and the individual sensory indication module 100. The use ofpower source will increase the size of each sensory indication module100, making them somewhat impractical.

As further illustrated in FIG. 5, the control module 104 includes aPrinted Circuit Board (PCB) assembly 504, with the PCB assembly 504mounted inside a rigid polymer case, similar to frame 410 of the sensoryindication modules 100. The PCB 504 includes various electronic andmechanical components that are part of the control module 104, thedetails of which are described below in relation to FIGS. 8 and 9. Asillustrated in FIG. 5, the control module 104 includes a microcontroller506 that manages the functionality of the entire unit, andcommunications unit 508 that enables the control module 104 tocommunicate with sensory indication modules 100 and other externaldevices. A power source 510 powers the control module 104 and thesensory indication modules 100, and may be in the form of a rechargeablebattery that may be housed inside the control module 104, with a lidprovided over the battery for easy replacement thereof. The controlmodule 104 further includes an interactive unit 204 for activating thecontrol module 104, setting references, and other functions, with theentire control module coupled with a module support 120 via theexemplary set of fastener mechanism 412.

FIG. 6A is an exemplary, general, schematic overview illustration of theposture training device, including the sensory indication modules andthe control module in accordance with the present invention. Asillustrated in FIG. 6A, any number of N sensory indication modules 100may be used. Further, the sensory indication modules 100 may directly orindirectly (via the control module 104 and or one or more externaldevices 602) communicate with one another and also with the controlmodule 104 using communications protocol 106. It should be noted thatboth the control module 104 and the sensory indication modules 100include respective communication units that enables communicationbetween both modules and external devices 602. Non-limiting examples ofexternal devices 602 may include Personal Computers, PDAs, cell phones,etc. The communication between the modules may be by any appropriatecommunications protocol, direct or indirect, only limited by practicalimplementation of the device (e.g., size, power usage, etc.). That is,the modules are preferably small size, and use negligible power.Accordingly, the communication protocol adopted should not increase, butmaintain the small size of the modules and use negligible power.Non-limiting example of communications protocols 106 may include wired(e.g., serial/parallel connectivity) or wireless (e.g., remote control,Bluetooth, Radio Frequency (RF), Infrared, cellular, PDA, LAN or WAN,Internet, or via a computer system (such as a server) or wirelessnetwork or any combinations thereof. For wireless communications, it isobvious that a transceiver is required in both of the modules (100 and104), with the transceiver requiring power. Accordingly, the illustratedwiring 414 in FIGS. 4 and 5 above may be replaced by an appropriatecommunication protocol 106 that may be implemented as a wireless system.Regardless of the particular type of communications protocol 106selected, it is preferred that the communication protocol 106 selectedhave small footprint and use negligible power for practicalimplementation of the system. The power for the sensory indicationmodules 100 may be independently provided (such as each module having abattery) or with power preferably provided to each sensor indicationmodules 100 by the control module 104.

FIG. 6B is a specific exemplary implementation of that, which isillustrated in general in FIG. 6A. That is, FIG. 6B exemplarilyillustrates a set of sensory indication modules 100 that directlycommunicate with the control module 104 using a single wire serial bustopology 414A as the selected communications protocol 106, with powerprovided by a separate power bus 414B to the sensor indication modules100 by the control module 104. A half-duplex master/slave typecommunication protocol is used to achieve two way data exchange betweenthe sensory indication modules 100 and the control module 104 on the bus414A. The control module 104 is the bus master and initiates allcommunication on the 414A. A sensory indication module 100 responds whenit is specifically addressed by the control module 104. Through thisnetwork architecture, the control module 104 is able to get the angledata from all the sensory indication modules 100 using a single wire.This network also allows the control module 104 to send commands toindividual sensory indication modules 100 on the same single wire, toturn on the feedback indicators (e.g., vibration motors). The singlewire serial bus network 414A architecture also allows an RF link to beused for communication instead of a copper wire as an alternateimplementation.

FIG. 7 is an exemplary schematic block diagram of a sensory indicationmodule in accordance with the present invention. As illustrated in FIG.7, the sensory indication modules 100 includes an identification (ID)mechanism 702 for identifying a specific sensory indication module 100by the generation of a unique analog ID signal. The ID mechanism 702 maybe implemented as an impedance, non-limiting example of which mayinclude a resistor. The use of an ID mechanism 702 allows all sensoryindication modules 100 to use the same components, and bedistinguishable by the generated unique analog ID signal. The IDmechanism 702 provides a specific signal/voltage level that identifies(or IDs) the sensory indication module 100 with which the ID mechanism702 is associated. That is, the ID mechanism 702 is an impedance thatgenerates the unique analog ID signal that identifies the sensoryindication module 100 for unique association of the identified sensoryindication module with a specific vertebra. This enables the sensoryindication module to be uniquely associated with a specified vertebra,while making the components of all sensors identical, which lowersmanufacturing costs. The use of the ID mechanism 702 also enables onesensory indication module to be distinguished from another sensoryindication module, especially when they communicate on the same serialbus 414A with a control module 104 (in accordance with oneimplementation of the posture training device of the present inventionillustrated in FIG. 6B). Accordingly, when the control module 104receives signals from specific sensory indication modules 100, thecontrol module 104 can determine which sensory indication module 100forwarded the signal based on the generated analog ID signal of thatsensory indication module 100. It should be noted that the ID mechanism702 may be software based and/or set in software, rather thanimplemented as the illustrated hardware element (e.g., a resistor).

As further illustrated in FIG. 7, the sensory indication modules 100further include the miniaturized multi-axis accelerometer sensor 404 forsensing (in the X, Y, and Z axis) the angle of the vertebra in relationto a true vertical and acceleration, and generating a first analogsignal that includes information about the angle and the acceleration ofthat particular vertebra (in the X, Y, and Z axis) with which thesensory incitation module 100 is associated.

The accelerometer sensors 404 used in the sensory indicator modules 100are well-known off-the-shelf products, non-limiting examples of whichmay include the use of accelerometer sensor ADXL335 from Analog Devices,details of which is provided in the iMEMES Accelerometer publication byAnalog Devices. The accelerometer sensors 404 used by the presentinvention are miniaturized multi-axis accelerometers, built on a singleIntegrated Circuit, and can measure the static (tilt sensing) anddynamic (motion) accelerations, and have orthogonal sense direction withnegligible cross-axis sensitivity—each axis (X, Y, and Z) is measuredmutually exclusive of the other. The accelerometers can senseacceleration along multiple axes along the x—front/back, y—left/right,and z—up/down.

Accelerometers are used as angle sensors in accordance with the presentinvention because they can detect centripetal acceleration of theobjects to determine their angular orientation in relation to the truevertical. The earth's rotation generates a centripetal force that actsat right angles in relation to the velocity of an object (which istangential to the earth's surface), causing a continuous centripetalacceleration of objects towards the center of the earth. Accordingly,the centripetal acceleration/force and the velocity of the object arealways perpendicular to one another. Therefore, the centripetalacceleration/force defines the true vertical orientation of the object,and the velocity, the true horizontal. An object's vertical orientationmay be calibrated and measured by the centripetal acceleration/force ofthe earth on that object. If the object changes its orientation anddeviates from the true vertical by some angle α, the continuouscentripetal acceleration/force experienced by the object at that newangle α will be different from the maximum (when the object is exactlytangent to the earth's surface) and this difference can be measured bythe accelerometers (the static acceleration−tilt sense). The differencesin the centripetal acceleration/forces can be used to determine theangle α. Stated otherwise, variations in the centripetalacceleration/force of the object due to object's deviation from thevertical can be used to measure and determine the angles by which theobject has deviated from the true vertical. Accordingly, the angularchanges of an object are derived by measuring the variations of thecentripetal acceleration/force on the objects using accelerometers.

Different reference postures can be set and stored in the apparatus sothat they would detect inappropriate posture within the context of avariety of activities. For example, the reference for correct posturewhen standing up, may not be appropriate when lifting an object.Accordingly, for a weight lifting activity, the setting for correctposture for a weight lifter will be different compared with the settingfor correct posture of golf swing for a golfer. The application is alsoextendable to all vertebrate animals. The fact that the sensors areminiaturized enables users to easily wear the device without discomfort.Finally, the present invention continuously monitors the accelerationlevels of the surface under consideration in the Z (or up-down) axis andalarms users if the levels exceed a preset level, this preventsinadvertent damage to the spine, legs, or other body parts of userssuffering from, for example, herniated discs or osteoporosis.

As further illustrated in FIG. 7, the sensory indication modules 100further include an Analog to Digital Converter (ADC) 704 for digitizingthe analog ID signal and the first analog signal for processing by amicroprocessor 706. The microprocessor 706 initiates ADC conversionsunder software control, and reads the digital angle values when theconversions are complete. The microprocessor 706 operates under softwarecontrol that is stored in the program memory 709, and includes anon-volatile memory 708 that may be part of the microprocessor 706 forsaving user settings, and further works with a memory unit 712 forstoring data and as work area for use by the microprocessor 706.Non-limiting example of the microprocessor 706 used may include FPGA(Field Programmable Gate array), EEPROM, Application Specific IntegratedCircuit (ASIC), or most other general purpose processors. Themicroprocessor 706 can be any off-the-shelf processor that can performthe functions required by the present invention, using low power.

As further illustrated in FIG. 7, the sensory indication modules 100include a sensor activation mechanism 710 for periodically activating(or providing power to) the accelerometer sensor 404 for detection. Themicroprocessor 706 turns the accelerometer sensor 404 ON through thesensor activation mechanism 710 and under software control for aduration for angle readings and turns accelerometer sensor 404 OFF whendone to save power. A timer 714 is used for synchronization of variousfunctionalities of the sensory indication modules 100, includingdetermining the rate by which data is transmitted and received. Thesensory indication modules 100 also include a communication unit 716 forcommunication of data with the microprocessor 706 and external devices602 using any appropriate communication protocol 106.

The sensory indication module 100 also includes a feedback indicator 408for communicating improper angular orientation of the vertebra withwhich the identified sensory indication module 100 is associated. Thefeedback indicator 408 may be a vibration mechanism such as a vibrationmotor, but it may also be an external device 206, such as a cell phoneor any other device, separate and remote from the sensory indicationmodules 100. In other words, an angle may be sensed, and the feedbackindicator 408 activated, with the feedback indicator 408 remote and awayfrom the actual sensed location. Non-limiting examples of feedbackindicators 408 may include mechanical devices, audio devices, visualdevices, or any combinations thereof. In fact, any type of mechanism ordevice that can provide localized differentiated stimulation to informusers to correct their posture at the specific location, and that may beincorporated inside each sensor indication module 100 or as part of anexternal device 206 may be used. These feedback indicators (e.g., amechanical device such as a vibration motor) are used as one feedbackmethod to alert (e.g., by vibration stimulation) the users that theangle of a specific sensor is off and therefore the posture in thatlocal surface area of the body with which the sensory indication module100 is associated needs to be corrected. For example, if a specificvertebra of a user is tilted too much to the right for a given activity(e.g., golf swing), the specific feedback indicator (e.g., an audiosound) associated with that particular vertebra may be activated and iftilted too much to the left, another audio sound may be activated twice(or output a different audio signal), in a quick, sequential bursts,which is an indication to the user to correct posture by tilting to theright. These types of localized feedback stimulations inform the userthat the posture for the given activity is incorrect, and further,inform the user to make the appropriate localized correction (such astilting to the left for correcting posture that is tilted too much tothe right side). This encourages users to use and exercise the specificmuscles, resulting in a correct posture for the given activity evenafter the device has been removed. The feedback indicator 408 may beactuated by an indicator actuator 718 based on a command from themicroprocessor 706. That is, the exemplary indicator actuator 718 mayfunction as a switch and provides power to the feedback indicator 408.The microprocessor 706 turns the feedback indicator 4080N and OFFthrough the indicator actuator 718 and under software control asnecessary to alert the user. It is preferred if the feedback indicators408 are vibration devices because the users can instantly feel the exactlocation of posture requiring correction. It would be difficult for theuser to “feel” the exact location with a flashing light or audio sound.

As further illustrated in FIG. 7, in this particular exemplaryimplementation illustrated in FIG. 7, the sensory indication modulecommunication unit 716 is an exemplary asynchronous receivertransmitter. The asynchronous receiver transmitter allows themicroprocessor 706 to receive commands from and send sensor angle datato the control module 104. The use of asynchronous system reduces theneed for use of plurality of wiring, and enables the use of a singlewire and/or single RF channel. It should also be noted that therespective data and power buses 414A and 414B illustrated may becombined into a single wire. This way, the data signals may be modulatedonto the power signal. In this instance, a modulator/demodulator wouldbe required to demodulate the data signal from power signal. Of course,asynchronous receiver transmitter may be replaced by an RF transceivermodule or any of the above mentioned communication protocols 106, whichmay require independent power source (e.g., a battery) for eachindividual sensory indication modules 100.

In general, the microprocessor 706 is capable of operating in at leasttwo power modes, which are running mode of operation and sleep mode (orpower save mode of operation). In sleep or power save mode of operation,all devices inside the sensory indication modules 100 are turned OFFexcept the communications protocol unit 716, the exemplary asynchronousreceiver transmitter. The microprocessor 706 stops all internaloperations to minimize power drain. The sensory indication modules 100remain in this mode until a command is received from the microcontroller506 of the control module 104. Upon receipt of such command, theasynchronous receiver transmitter triggers the microprocessor 706 of thesensory indication modules 100 to power ON and switch to running mode.It should be noted that the microcontroller 506 of the control module104 activates all sensory indication modules 100 (and their respectiveaccelerometer sensors 404) together via the respective sensoryindication modules sensor actuators 710. For this implementationillustrated in FIG. 1, an exemplary five sensory indication modules 100are used that communicate with the control module 104 through the samecommunication protocol 106 (the exemplary single wire serial bus 414A).The ADC 704, actuators 710 and 718, asynchronous receiver transmitter716, and the various elements illustrated in FIG. 7 may be separate,independent ICs or part of the microprocessor IC 706. It should be notedthat each sensor assembly may be self contained. Therefore, each sensoryindication module 100 may operate autonomously but communicate with acontrol module 104 or one another, eliminating all the cables betweenthe sensors and to the control module 104.

FIG. 8 is an exemplary schematic block diagram of a control module inaccordance with the present invention. As illustrated in FIG. 8, thecontrol module 104 for communicating command and control instructionsincludes the interactive unit 204 for activating the control module 104and for setting references. Non-limiting examples of the interactiveunit 204 may include one or more simple push button switches, a touchscreen display with various soft-action button icons for performingdifferent functions (e.g., a set references icon, turn ON device icon,turn OFF device icon, etc.). Other non-limiting examples of aninteractive unit 204 may include remote actuators, a cell phone, a PDA,or any type of input/output (I/O) device(s) that enables humaninteraction with the control module 104, and may be remote andphysically separate from the control module 104.

The control module 104 also includes a microcontroller 506 with anassociated program memory 802 having fixed set of instructions for thefunctionality of the microcontroller 506, a non-volatile memory 804 thatmay be used to save information such as user preferences, etc., and aRandom Access Memory (RAM) 806 used by the microcontroller 506 forcalculations and as a work area. Non-limiting example of themicrocontroller 506 used may include Field Programmable Gate array,EEPROM, Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), or most othergeneral purpose processors. In fact, any type of off-the-shelfmicrocontroller that can perform the functions required by the presentinvention may be used. The microprocessor 706 of the sensory indicationmodules 100 and the microcontroller 506 of the control module 104 may beidentical, however, it is preferred that both consume low power.

As further illustrated in FIG. 8, the control module 104 furtherincludes a timer 808 that may be used to wake up the microcontroller 506itself from its sleep or power save mode. As will be described below,the duration of time for power save mode or full power ON mode isadaptive and varies depending on type of the signal received fromsensors. For example, if the type of signal received is normal (the userhas maintained perfect posture), the wakeup call will be less frequent.If the type of signal received is not normal (e.g., there is an angulardeviation sensed by the sensory indication modules 100), the wake upcalls will be more frequent for corrections. The adaptive schemedescribed further below in relation to FIGS. 10A to 11D is implementedto further save power usage.

As further illustrated in FIG. 8, the exemplary control module 104further includes a transceiver 810 that enables communications betweenthe microcontroller 506 and an external device 602. Further, anAsynchronous Receiver and Transmitter peripheral device 812 allows thecontrol module 104 to communicate with the sensory indication modules100 over the Single-Wire Serial Bus 414A. The control module 104 usesthe Asynchronous Receiver and Transmitter 812 to send commands to, andreceive data from the sensory indication modules 100 on the bus 414A. Ofcourse, the transceiver 810 and the Asynchronous Receiver andTransmitter peripheral device 812 (individually or combined into asingle communication unit) may be implemented using any appropriatecommunication protocol 106.

The control module 104 illustrated in FIG. 8 also provides the powersource 510 (e.g., rechargeable battery) to power the control module 104,sensory indication modules 100, and or possibly other external devices602. Although not illustrated, instead of having separate modules 100and 104, a single unit may include the combined sensory indicationmodule 100 and the control module 104 (combining FIGS. 7 and 8). Inaddition, the entire control module 104 may be implemented into each ofthe sensory indication modules 100. That is, each sensory indicationmodule 100 may include all the components of the control module 104. Ininstances of combining the modules 100 and 104, all redundancies may beeliminated, including, for example, the use of only a single processorfor the entire unit and so on.

FIG. 9 is an exemplary schematic block diagram of the circuitrycomponents of another sensory indication module and control module inaccordance with the present invention. The sensory indication module 900and the control module 904 include similar corresponding or equivalentcomponents, interconnections, and or cooperative relationships as thesensory indication modules 100 and the control module 104 that are shownin FIGS. 1 to 8, and described above. Therefore, for the sake ofbrevity, clarity, convenience, and to avoid duplication, the generaldescription of FIG. 9 will not repeat every corresponding or equivalentcomponent and or interconnections that has already been described abovein relation to sensory indication modules 100 and the control module 104that are shown in FIGS. 1 to 8.

As illustrated in FIG. 9, in this alternate implementation, the sensoryindication modules 900 only houses an accelerometer sensor 404 and afeedback indicator 408. With this implementation, the sensory indicationmodules 900 are also intimately associated with vertebra 102 fordetection of angle and acceleration of vertebra, but only include anaccelerometer sensor 404 for sensing (in X, Y, and Z axis) the angle ofthe vertebra and acceleration in relation to a true vertical, andgenerate a first analog signal 906 in the X, Y, and Z directions.Further, the feedback indicator 408 for communicating improper angularorientation of the vertebra with which the identified sensory indicationmodule 900 is associated with the user is also provided. In thisimplementation, a control module 904 for communicating command andcontrol instructions with the sensory indication modules 900 isprovided. The X, Y, and Z angle analog output signals 906 are brought toa multiple input ADC 910 inside the control module 904 via a directcoupling, with power actuators 912 inside the control module 904 drivingeach feedback indicator 408 through an individual connection 908 to eachsensor indication module 900.

As has been described, the posture training device of the presentinvention is most effective when worn by users throughout the durationof an activity. Users wear the posture-training device first, and thenput on the rest of their activity attire that will be worn for durationof usage of the device. Users actuate the interactive unit 204 to turnON the sensory indication modules 100. At power ON, all of the feedbackindicators 408 (e.g., a vibration motor) may become active sequentiallyand output a stimulation (e.g., vibration of the motor in shortrepetitive bursts) to let the user know that the sensory indicationmodules 100 are ready and waiting to set the user preferred referenceposture. This also indicates that all the feedback indicators areoperating properly. To set the user preferred reference posture, usersposition their posture (hands, back, arms, etc.) in an orientation mostappropriate for the particular activity for which they intend toperfect. For example, for the activity of standing, users may stand withthe correct back posture and actuate the appropriate interactive unit204 (e.g., press a push button for a certain duration, use atouch-screen, or by some other mechanism) to commence setting ofreference. This saves the correct posture as the user preferredreference posture in the control module 104. Once a preferred referenceposture is set, the feedback indicators 408 deactivate (e.g., thevibration motor or LED lights, or audio sounds are turned OFF) and theaccelerometer sensors 404 commence monitoring the user's posturecontinuously.

If the user's posture deviates from the saved preferred referenceposture by more than a set range (non-limiting example of which mayinclude, e.g., ±3 degrees) the feedback indicator 408 inside the sensoryindication modules 100 that detected the deviation will alert the userto correct posture. For example, the alert may include one short burstof vibration from an exemplary vibration motor to alert the user tocorrect in, for example, the backwards direction. Other types of alerts(e.g., two short bursts of vibration using the vibration motor) may beused to inform the user to correct posture in the forward direction. Acompletely different type of alert, such as a long burst of vibrationmay be used to alert the user if the deviation is in either left orright direction. In other words, various types of feedback stimulationsmay be used and may be associated with a specific type of correction toinform the user to make the appropriate correction. When the usercorrects his or her posture in that localized area where incorrectposture was sensed, the indicator alerts stop. If more than one sensordetects a deviation, it is preferred that the indicator 408 in theuppermost sensory indication modules 100 that detected the deviation beactivated first. Once that particular area has been corrected, the lowersensory indication modules 100 can then activate their respectiveindicators 408, if they continue to detect a deviation. This encouragesthe user to correct his or her posture from the top to down, which isapplicable in most instances. Of course, the manner and the sequence ofactivating feedback indicator may be varied in accordance with theactivity, and should not be limited to the top-down approach. Thesensory indication modules 100 may be deactivated by actuating theinteractive unit 204.

As is described further below in relation to FIGS. 10A to 11D, digitaldifferentiation and integration algorithms performed by themicrocontroller 506 under software control monitor the accelerometersensor 404 outputs over time and determine the states or conditionsduring which it is not desirable to alert the user even though his orher posture may be off from the preferred reference posture. For thisimplementation, these conditions may include high acceleration levelswhich translate to the user walking or performing physical activity forwhich the posture training device was not set, and high angle deviationsfrom true vertical that translate to the user either lying down or in aposition not desirable for posture correction (e.g., bending to pickupan object).

The microcontroller 506 saves the preferred reference posture internallyin non-volatile memory 804. Therefore, the same preferred referenceposture can be recalled even after power down or battery change. Whenturning ON the sensory indication modules 100, the user may actuate theinteractive unit 204 (which may include a soft-button icon that isdedicated for a recall function) to recall the last saved referenceposture. Due to day to day variability in sensor position, clothing wornover the sensors, and physical changes of the user over time, regularlysaving the reference posture may be desired.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are exemplary flow diagrams of the functionality ofthe sensory indication modules in accordance with the present invention.Since the same sensory indication module code runs on all the sensoryindication modules 100, this description applies to all the sensorindication modules 100 that are attached to the system network (e.g.,using the communication protocol 106 described in FIG. 6B, which is thesingle wire serial bus). As described in relation to FIG. 7, eachsensory indication module 100 however, is assembled with a different IDvalue for identification (by the ID mechanism 702) such that on powerup, the microprocessor 706 reads the ID signal value and configuresitself with a unique sensor address that corresponds to the physicalposition of the sensory indication module 100 on the user.

Each microprocessor 706 remains in the sleep mode the majority of thetime. When entering this mode, the microprocessor 706 shuts down alldevices, stops its internal clock, and halts all processing. In thisstate, the microprocessor 706 and the entire sensory indication module100 draw negligible power and thus allows the entire device to run onvery little power, for example, using a single coin type lithium batteryfor an extended period of time. While in this low power state however,specialized circuits inside the microprocessor 706 monitor the networkline (e.g., bus 414A). Any activity on the network line triggers themicroprocessor 706 to start its internal clock again and resumeprocessing. The source of the network line activity comes from thecontrol module 104, which deliberately toggles the network lineperiodically to turn ON all the sensory indication modules 100 andcollect angle data or command a feedback indicator 408 to turn ON.

The control module 104 waits a short time after toggling the networkline to allow all the sensory indication modules 104 to power ON, readthe sensors, and be ready to receive commands. In general, the commandsmay be any length (byte size), with a few bytes or bits representing thedestination sensory indication module 100 and others representing thecommand type. When the control module sends a command it is received byall sensory indication modules 100. Each sensory indication module 100compares the sensor address in the received command with its own. If thesensor address doesn't match, it ignores the command. Therefore, whileall sensory indication modules 100 receive the same command, only theintended sensory indication module 100 will respond to the controlmodule.

As illustrated in detail in FIGS. 10A and 10B, at the operational act of1002 the microprocessor 706 of the sensory indication modules 100periodically determines if there is a command from a microcontroller 506of the control module 104. If the microprocessor 706 determines thatthere is no command from the microcontroller 506 of the control module104, the microprocessor 706 reverts back to sleep mode at operationalact 1004. If the microprocessor 706 determines at the operational act1002 that there is a command from the microcontroller 506 of the controlmodule 104, the microprocessor 706 at the operational act 1006 is fullyactivated, which, in turn, activates the accelerometer sensor 404 for afirst adaptive time period T1, and at the operational act 1008 clearsthe receiver buffer from all previously received commands (within acommunications unit, such as the asynchronous transmitter receiver 716).

At operational act 1010 the microprocessor 706 determines if the commandreceived from the microcontroller 506 is a wakeup command. If so, themicroprocessor 706 reads and saves the detected angles (in the X, Y, andZ axis) of the vertebra by the accelerometer sensor 404 at theoperational act 1012, and determines if the first adaptive time periodT1 has expired at the operational act 1014 and 1015.

If the microprocessor 706 determines that the first adaptive time periodT1 has expired at the operational act 1014, the operational act 1016 isexecuted wherein the posture training device is entered into a low powersleep mode by the microcontroller 506 of the control module 104. If themicroprocessor 706 at the operational act 1014 determines that the firstadaptive time period T1 has not expired, the receiver buffer is cleared(within communications unit such as the asynchronous transmitterreceiver 716), and the operational act 1010 is executed again where themicroprocessor 706 determines if the command is a command other than awakeup command (e.g., a new command is received from the microcontroller506 during the first adaptive time period T1 duration).

If the microprocessor 706 at the operational act 1010 determines that anew command is received (that is not a wakeup command) from themicrocontroller 506, the microprocessor 706 at the operational acts 1018and 1020 checks the received command ID to determine if the received newcommand from the microcontroller 506 is intended for the sensoryindication module 100 to which the received command is sent. That is,the commands from the microcontroller 506 include ID tags that mustmatch the ID signal output from ID mechanism 702 of the sensoryindication modules 100. If the microprocessor 706 at the operational act1020 determines that the command received from the microcontroller isintended for the sensory indication module to which the command is sent,the microprocessor 706 at the operational act 1022 determines if thecommand received is an angle query command; otherwise, the receiverbuffer is cleared at the operational act 1008. If the microprocessor 706at the operational act 1022 determines that command received is an anglequery command, the microprocessor 706 at the operational act 1024 sendsthe saved sensed angular orientations to the microcontroller 506 orother external device 602 via an appropriate communications protocol106, and the receiver buffer is cleared at the operational act 1008.However, if the microprocessor 706 determines at the operational act1022 that command received is not the angle query command, themicroprocessor 706 at the operational act 1026 determines if the commandreceived is a command to activate a feedback indicator 408. As statedabove, feedback indicators 408 may be activated for a number of reasonssuch as setting a reference posture, correction of posture, indicatingthat the sensor is active, and so on. If the microprocessor 706determines that command received is a command to activate the indicator408, a second duration T2 (where T1 is much greater than T2) is set foractivation of the feedback indicator 408 at the operational act 1028,the feedback indicator 408 is activated for the second duration T2 atthe operational act 1030, and the microcontroller 506 enters the entireapparatus into a low power sleep mode at the operational act 1016 afterthe second duration T2 has expired (determined by the operational acts1032 and 1034) and the feedback indicator 408 is deactivated (atoperational act 1036). On the other hand, if the microprocessor 706determines at the operational act 1026 that command received is not acommand to activate the feedback indicator 408 (e.g., posture is correctand no need for feedback stimulation), the microprocessor 706 at theoperational act 1038 determines if the command received is a resetcommand. If so, the microprocessor 716 clears and resets all registersat the operational act 1040, and the microcontroller 506 enters theapparatus into a low power sleep mode at the operational act 1016.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are exemplary flow diagrams of the functionality ofthe control module in accordance with the present invention. In general,the microcontroller 506 within the control module 104 remains in thesleep mode the majority of the time. When entering this mode, themicrocontroller 506 shuts down all devices and halts all processing. Inthis state, the control module 104 draws negligible power and thusallows the entire device to run on very little power, for example, usinga single coin type lithium battery for an extended period of time. Whilein this low power state, however, a timer inside the microcontroller 506remains ON and continues to count and keep time. The microcontroller 506programs a short or long delay in this timer before entering sleep mode.

While in sleep mode the timer 808 counts the programmed delay until ittimes out at which time it triggers the microcontroller 506 to power upagain and resume processing. Once out of sleep mode the control module104 in turn toggles the network line (e.g., line 414A) to force thesensory indication modules 100 ON and sends angle query commands to allthe sensory indication modules 104 in sequence to retrieve all thesensor angle readings. The microcontroller 506 then performs the posturecheck algorithm described in detail below. The outcome of this algorithmis to turn ON or OFF a feedback indicator 408. If a feedback indicator408 must be turned ON, then the microcontroller 506 sends the ON commandto the appropriate sensor and programs a short delay in the timer. Ifthe posture is good and no activity of the feedback indicator 408 isrequired, then the microcontroller 506 programs a long delay in thetimer. Once done with the posture check, the microcontroller 506 alsosends posture data and status to an external device 602, if present andenabled. At this point the microcontroller 506 is done with the currentprocessing and proceeds to enter sleep mode. While in sleep mode, anactuation of an interactive unit 204 (e.g., a push button pressed by theuser) will also trigger the microcontroller 506 to power up and resumeprocessing. A push button press is also detected while the CPU is ON.

When actuation of an interactive unit 204 is detected, themicrocontroller 506 determines if a request to save the current postureas reference has been made (short duration button press) or the userwishes to turn OFF the device (long duration button press). If a savefeature is requested, the microcontroller 506 saves the latest anglereadings in non-volatile memory. Otherwise, the microcontroller 506turns OFF all devices, including the internal clock and timer, stops allprocessing, and enters the OFF Mode. While in this very low power statehowever, specialized circuits inside the microcontroller 506 monitor theinteractive unit 204 input. If an actuation of the interactive unit 204is detected, the circuits trigger the microcontroller 506 to start itsinternal clock again and resume processing.

When powering up from the OFF Mode the microcontroller 506 determines ifthe reference posture needs to be set (based on the interactive unit204). If so, the microcontroller 506 processes every timer timeout asdescribed above and reads all the sensor angles but will not run theposture check algorithm. Instead, the microcontroller 506 commands thesensory indication modules 100 to run the feedback indicator 408 in aspecific manner (e.g., each vibration motor vibrating in short burstssequentially). This notifies the user in repetitive short bursts thatthe device is waiting to set the reference posture. The control module104 remains in this mode until the actuation of the interactive unit 204is detected for saving the setting, at which time microcontroller 506saves the reference posture and switches to checking the posture. Onpower up, if microcontroller 506 detects actuation of the interactiveunit 204 for as a recall function, microcontroller 506 retrieves thelast saved reference posture from non-volatile memory and uses it as thereference posture as it immediately starts running the posturealgorithm.

As illustrated in detail in FIGS. 11A to 11C, the microcontroller 506 isgenerally in a power save mode (at operational act 1102) for the firstadaptive time period T1, with a duration of the first adaptive timeperiod T1 varying depending on responses from external devices (such asthe sensory indication modules 100). As illustrated, at the operationalact 1104 the microcontroller 506 periodically determines if the firstadaptive time period T1 has expired. If the microcontroller 506determines that the first adaptive time period T1 has not expired, themicrocontroller 506 at the operational acts 1106 and 1108 determines ifthe interactive unit 204 has been actuated for one of a first and secondactuation durations, with the first actuation duration shorter than thesecond actuation duration.

It should be noted that the flow diagrams in FIGS. 11A and 11Billustrate the flow of the functionality of control module 104 that usesan interactive unit 204 comprised of a single push button actuator.Accordingly, the single push button actuator is implemented such that ifit is pressed for various durations, for example, a first duration(operational act 1106), it may trigger one set of functions whereas ifthe same actuator is pressed for a second duration or some other thirdduration or in a sequence other functions may be triggered. Therefore,it should be apparent to those skills in the art that operational acts1106, 1108, 1114, 1116, and 1134 associated with the actuation of theinteractive unit 204 may easily be replaced and represented by otheroperational acts, depending on the type of interactive unit 204 used,without affecting the logical flow illustrated in FIGS. 11A to 11D. Forexample, instead of a single push button, a touch screen that mayinclude a set of dedicated soft-button icons for specific functions maybe used, such as a dedicated ON, OFF, and set reference soft-buttonicons. As a specific example, the microcontroller 506 may determine if awakeup soft-button icon at operational act 1106 has been actuated or asecond soft-button icon for deactivating a timer (at operational act1108) has been pressed instead of the respective first and secondduration pressing of a single push button, all without affecting thelogical flow of the operations. Therefore, FIGS. 11A and 11B are onlyone exemplary implementation of the logical flow of operations that makeuse of an exemplary single push button as an example of the interactiveunit 204, and should not be limiting. Accordingly, references to asingle push button switch (and its duration of operations) throughoutthe remainder of the disclosure in relations to FIGS. 11A to 11D aremeant as illustrative and for convenience of example, only.

As further illustrated in FIG. 11A, if microcontroller 506 determinesthat the interactive unit 204 as the exemplary single push button switchhas not been actuated for one of the first (shorter) and second (longer)actuation durations and the first adaptive time period T1 is notexpired, the microcontroller 506 maintain the power save mode(operational act 1102). If the microcontroller 506 determines that theinteractive unit 204 has been actuated for second actuation duration (atoperational act 1108) while the first adaptive time period T1 has notexpired, the microcontroller deactivates the first adaptive time periodT1 at the operational act 1110, and places the apparatus to OFF mode atoperational act 1112. This is equivalent to a simple OFF switch thatturns OFF a device. That is, if using another type of an interactiveunit 204 that implements a dedicated OFF switch for the device of thepresent invention, the same logic flow can be used but instead ofdetermining the second duration of actuation of the single button at theoperational act 1108, the microcontroller 506 would determine if an OFFswitch mechanism has been actuated (at operational act 1108). If themicrocontroller determines at the operational act 1108 that the OFFswitch has be actuated, the microcontroller 506 would deactivate thetimer at operational act 1110, and turn OFF the device at operationalact 1112, without any change in the logical flow of the operations ofthe microcontroller 506 illustrated in FIGS. 11A to 11D.

While the apparatus is OFF, if microcontroller 506 determines that theinteractive unit 204 has not been actuated for one of the second andfirst actuation durations (operational acts 1114 and 1116), themicrocontroller remains OFF. This is equivalent to not turning ON thedevice. Further, while the apparatus is OFF, if the interactive unit 204has been actuated for second actuation duration, the microcontroller isactivated, recalls saved users preferences, and activates the firstadaptive time period T1 (at operational acts 1118 and 1120). On theother hand, if the interactive unit 204 has been actuated for firstactuation duration (operational act 1116), the microcontroller 506 onlyactivates the first adaptive time period T1 at the operational act 1120,and enters the power save mode 1102 via operational act 1122. Therefore,when turning ON the sensory indication modules 100, the user may actuatethe interactive unit 204 (which may include a soft-button icon that isdedicated for a recall function) to recall the last saved referenceposture (operational acts 1114, 1118, and 1120) or use the ON buttonicon to simply turn ON the device without the recall function(operational acts 1116 and 1120), all without affecting the logical flowof the control module 104.

As further illustrated in FIGS. 11A and 11B, if the microcontroller 506determines that one of the first adaptive time period T1 has expired (atoperational act 1104) and the interactive unit 204 has been actuated forthe first actuation durations (operational act 1106), themicrocontroller 506 forwards a first command (a wake up command) tosensory indication modules 100 at the operational act 1126. In addition,the microcontroller 506 also forwards a first query (in the form ofangle measurements) to the modules 100, and receives a first response tothe first query at the operational acts 1128 and 1130, respectively.Thereafter, at the operational act 1132 the microcontroller 506determines if the first response has been received from all sensoryindication modules 100. If the microcontroller 506 determines that thefirst response has been received from all the sensory indication modules100, the microcontroller 506 at the operational act 1134 determines ifthe interactive unit 204 has been actuated for the first actuationdurations. If not, the microcontroller 506 determines if a userpreferred reference is set at the operational act 1136. Ifmicrocontroller 506 determines that user preferred reference is not set,the feedback indicator 408 is activated and the first adaptive timeperiod T1 is modified for a longer duration, increasing the duration ofthe power save mode of the microcontroller at the operational acts 1138and 1140, respectively.

If microcontroller 506 determines at the operational act 1136 that userpreferred reference is set, the microcontroller 506 checks for postureby comparing the received responses with the user set preferredreferences by a predefined process 1142. If received responses arecommensurate with user set preferred references at the operational act1144 (e.g., good posture), the first adaptive time period T1 is modifiedfor a longer duration, increasing the duration of the power save mode ofthe microcontroller 506 at the operational act 1140. Otherwise, thefeedback indicator 408 is activated at the operational act 1138 and thefirst adaptive time period T1 is modified and set for a shorter durationat the operational act 1140. If microcontroller 506 determines that theinteractive unit 204 has been actuated for the first actuation durations(operational act 1134), the microcontroller 506 sets received responsesfrom the sensory indication modules 100 as user preferred reference(operational act 1150), and the set user preferences are communicatedexternally for display and analysis (at the operational acts 1146 and1148, respectively).

FIG. 11C is an exemplary flow diagram for checking posture in accordancewith the present invention. In other words, FIG. 11C illustratesdescribes the processing of the sensor angle data and logic used todetermine if a feedback indicator such as a vibration motor needs to beturned ON to alert the user of a bad posture and more importantly, toavoid false alarms (e.g., due to the user bending to pickup and objector when user lying down). For this exemplary implementation, sensorangle data from several consecutive readings (e.g., three readings) arecontinuously saved as DATA(T−2), DATA(T−1), and DATA(T). The average ofthe readings is computed as AVE (CHAN), with CHAN being the channels foreach X, Y, and Z axis. The maximum deviation from AVE(CHAN) is computedas MAX DEVIATION(CHAN). The average and max deviation results arecompared with high and low limits for large angles and accelerationlimit values. If the results exceed any of the limits, then no furtherposture check is performed and no feedback indicator 408 is allowed toturn ON.

A long timer delay (e.g., about 10 seconds) is setup before thealgorithm is run again. If the results don't exceed the limits then theproper posture check is performed using the AVE(CHAN) data checkedagainst the saved reference posture angle (+/−3 degrees). If a deviationis detected and depending on the direction of deviation and angle axis,the appropriate feedback indicator is commanded to turn ON in a specificmanner (e.g., a vibration motor activates in short single or doubleburst, or single long burst). Thereafter, a short (about 1 second) timerdelay is setup before the algorithm is run again. If no deviation isdetected, a medium (about 3 seconds) timer delay is setup before thealgorithm is run again. The microcontroller 506 feeds every angle sensoroutput through this algorithm. The X or forward-backward axis is runfirst starting at the top sensor at the T1 vertebra. Then, the Y orleft-right axis is run again starting at the top sensor at the T1vertebra, and then the Z. This sequence encourages the user to alwayscorrect his or her posture from the top down and in the forward-backwarddirection first.

Referring to the details of FIG. 11C, as was illustrated in FIG. 11B,the predefined process 1142 compares the received responses with userpreferred references in accordance with the operational acts illustratedin FIG. 11C by obtaining a plurality of responses (angles read) in theform of Data(T_(a)), Data(T_(b)), . . . Data(T_(m)) at different timeintervals T_(a), T_(b), . . . T_(m) from each of the sensory indicationmodules 100 at the operational act 1152. The angles are then averaged atthe operational act 1154 by calculating an average AVG of the pluralityof responses obtained at different time intervals as follows:

AVG(Channel)=(Data(T _(a))+Data(T _(b))+ . . . +Data(T _(m)))/m

Where m is an integer value for the number of time interval readings.

At the operational act 1156, the microcontroller 506 calculates simpledeviations from the average of the plurality of responses obtained atdifferent time intervals as follows:

$\begin{matrix}{{\Delta \; \left( T_{a} \right)} = {{ABS}\left( {{{AVG}({Channel})} - {{Data}\left( T_{a} \right)}} \right)}} \\{{\Delta \; \left( T_{b} \right)} = {{ABS}\left( {{{AVG}({Channel})} - {{Data}\left( T_{b} \right)}} \right)}} \\\vdots \\{{\Delta \; \left( T_{m} \right)} = {{{ABS}\left( {{{AVG}({Channel})} - {{Data}\left( T_{m} \right)}} \right)}.}}\end{matrix}$

At operational acts 1158 to 1166 the microcontroller 506 determines themaximum deviation MAX DEV as follow:

MAX DEV(Channel)=MAX (Δ(T _(a)),Δ(T _(b)), . . . Δ(T _(m))).

At operational act 1168 repeats the above for every channel (X, Y, and Zangle of every sensory indication module 100).

The microcontroller 506 then determines if the AVG(Channel) or the MAXDEV (Channel) are outside defined maximum parameters, and if so, themicrocontroller 506 sets the first adaptive time period T1 duration anddisable the indicators 408. This may occur when the user is actually andintentionally (consciously) performing acts that are outside the norm ofan activity for which the posture training device is programmed. Forexample, user bends to pickup an item, making extreme moves that falloutside normal activity of walking (outside the AVG and MAX predefinedparameters for the activities of walking or excessive motion).Accordingly, for example, the indicator 408 need not be activated toinform the user to correct posture when the user is consciously bendingto pick up an item. Otherwise, microcontroller 506 determines ifAVG(Channel) is outside the user set preferences. If the microcontroller506 determines that AVG(Channel) is outside the user set preferences,microcontroller 506 determines which specific parameter withinAVG(Channel) (the X, Y, Z angles) is outside user set preference, andgenerates a unique stimulation using the feedback indicator 408specifically associated with that parameter, and sets the first adaptivetime period duration T1 to a shorter duration. For example, the user maybe leaning too much forward, which means that the feedback indicator 408in the form of a vibration motor may be activated in two quick burstsinforming user by the vibration stimulation of the two quick bursts ofmotor that the user needs to correct posture by leaning a bit back. Asanother example, if the user leans too much backward or to the right,the feedback indicator 408 may be activated in single or triple bursts,clearly informing and instructing user to appropriately correct posture.Any other stimulation to inform the user to appropriately correctposture may also be used, such as unique audio outputs for lateraldeviation corrections of posture and so on. Otherwise, if themicrocontroller 506 determines that AVG(Channel) is not outside the userset preferences, the microcontroller 506 sets the first adaptive timeperiod duration T1 to an average duration.

FIG. 11D is an exemplary partial schematic flow block diagram of thefunctionality of the control module 904 in accordance with the presentinvention. Only FIG. 11A of the control module 104 has been reproducedas FIG. 11D for the control module 904. The flow diagram of FIG. 11Dincludes similar corresponding or equivalent components,interconnections, and or cooperative relationships as the flow diagramin FIG. 11A to 11C described above. Therefore, for the sake of brevity,clarity, convenience, and to avoid duplication, the general descriptionof FIG. 11D will not repeat every corresponding or equivalent componentand or interconnections that has already been described above inrelation to flows that are shown in FIGS. 11A to 11C.

In the alternate implementation where the sensory induction modules 100only house an accelerometer sensor 404 and the feedback indicator 408,and the analog X, Y, and Z angle outputs are brought to a multiple inputADC inside the control module 104, the network line 414A is eliminatedand the control module 104 directly controls the ADC and acquires thesensor angle values without having to send individual commands to thesensors, and similarly, the control module 104 directly controls thefeedback indicators 408 without having to send the commands. The sameposture check algorithm is used and in the same sequence.

As illustrated in detail FIG. 11D, the microcontroller 506 forwards afirst command (wake up command) to external devices (e.g., the sensoryindication modules 900), and simply receives data from external devicesat operational act 1180. In other words, given the direct connectionsbetween the sensory indication modules 900 and the control module 904(FIG. 9), the operational acts 1128 to 1132 loop illustrated in FIG. 11Ais merely replaced by one read command 1180.

Although the invention has been described in considerable detail inlanguage specific to structural features and or method acts, it is to beunderstood that the invention defined in the appended claims is notnecessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather,the specific features and acts are disclosed as preferred forms ofimplementing the claimed invention. Stated otherwise, it is to beunderstood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein, as wellas the abstract, are for the purpose of description and should not beregarded as limiting. Therefore, while exemplary illustrativeembodiments of the invention have been described, numerous variationsand alternative embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. Forexample, the sensory indication modules 100 may be directly coupled witha surface, without using the module support. For example, this can be adirect coupling of the sensory indication modules 100 with the skin ofthe user (using suction mechanism, removable adhesives, etc.). Suchvariations and alternate embodiments are contemplated, and can be madewithout departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

It should further be noted that throughout the entire disclosure, thelabels such as left, right, front, back, top, bottom, forward, reverse,clockwise, counter clockwise, up, down, or other similar terms such asupper, lower, aft, fore, vertical, horizontal, oblique, proximal,distal, parallel, perpendicular, transverse, longitudinal, etc. havebeen used for convenience purposes only and are not intended to implyany particular fixed direction or orientation. Instead, they are used toreflect relative locations and/or directions/orientations betweenvarious portions of an object.

In addition, reference to “first,” “second,” “third,” and etc. membersthroughout the disclosure (and in particular, claims) is not used toshow a serial or numerical limitation but instead is used to distinguishor identify the various members of the group.

In addition, any element in a claim that does not explicitly state“means for” performing a specified function, or “step for” performing aspecific function, is not to be interpreted as a “means” or “step”clause as specified in 35 U.S.C. Section 112, Paragraph 6. Inparticular, the use of “step of,” “act of,” “operation of,” or“operational act of” in the claims herein is not intended to invoke theprovisions of 35 U.S.C. 112, Paragraph 6.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus, comprising: sensory indicationmodules intimately associated with a surface for detection of anglerelative to true earth vertical and acceleration, and includes feedbackindicators for communicating information in relation to the detectedangle and movement; and control module for communicating command andcontrol instructions with the sensory indication modules.
 2. Theapparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein: the sensory indicationmodules are encapsulated within a soft casing.
 3. The apparatus as setforth in claim 1, wherein: the control module includes a controllerencapsulation layer.
 4. The apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein:the sensory indication modules and the control module include a set offastener mechanisms for detachable coupling the sensory indicationmodules and the control module with a module support.
 5. The apparatusas set forth in claim 4, wherein: the set of fastener mechanisms providepower and communications signals between sensory indication modules, thecontrol module, and other devices.
 6. The apparatus as set forth inclaim 1, wherein: the surface is a vertebra, and the sensory indicationmodules are intimately associated with the vertebra by a module support.7. The apparatus as set forth in claim 6, wherein: the module support iscomprised of one of a garment and a strap.
 8. The apparatus as set forthin claim 6, wherein: the module support is comprised of one of a garmentand a strap with embedded wiring.
 9. The apparatus as set forth in claim1, wherein: the module support further includes a cover that covers thesensory indication modules and interconnections, preventing the sensoryindication modules and the interconnections from snagging with otherelements; and the cover includes a set of cover fasteners that coupledthe cover with the module support.
 10. The apparatus as set forth inclaim 8, wherein: the strap includes sensory indication moduleadjustment fasteners to enable adjustment of the position of the sensoryindication modules along the strap.
 11. The apparatus as set forth inclaim 1, wherein: the control module and at least one sensory indicationmodule are integrated as a single unit.
 12. The apparatus as set forthin claim 1, wherein: the feedback indicator is a vibration mechanism.13. The apparatus, as set forth in claim 1, wherein: the sensors areminiaturized multi-axis accelerometers.
 14. The apparatus as set forthin claim 1, wherein: the control module includes a Printed Circuit Boardassembly, including: a microprocessor; communication unit that enablesthe control module to communicate with sensory indication modules andexternal devices; a power source; and an interactive unit for activatingthe control module, setting references and manipulation of the controlmodule.
 15. The apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein: the controlmodule and the sensory indication modules include a communication unitthat enables communication between the modules and external devices. 16.An apparatus, comprising: sensory indication modules intimatelyassociated with vertebra for detection of orientation and accelerationof vertebra, the sensory indication modules include: an identification(ID) mechanism for identifying a sensory indication module thatgenerates a unique analog ID signal; a sensor for sensing the angle ofthe vertebra in relation to a true vertical and acceleration, andgenerating a first analog signal; an Analog to Digital Converter (ADC)for digitizing the analog ID signal and the first analog signal forprocessing by a microprocessor; a sensor actuation mechanism forperiodically activating the sensor for detection; a memory unit forstoring data for use by the microprocessor; a timer for synchronizationof various functionalities of the sensory indication modules; sensoryindication module communication unit for communication of signals withthe microprocessor and external devices; a feedback indicators forcommunicating improper angular orientation of the vertebra with whichthe identified sensory indication module is associated.
 17. Theapparatus as set forth in claim 16, wherein: the ID mechanism is animpedance that generates the unique analog ID signal that identifies thesensory indication module for unique association of the identifiedsensory indication module with a specific vertebra.
 18. The apparatus asset forth in claim 16, wherein: the sensor is a miniaturized multi-axisaccelerometer.
 19. The apparatus as set forth in claim 16, wherein: thesensory indication module communication unit is asynchronous receivertransmitter.
 20. The apparatus as set forth in claim 16, wherein: thefeedback indicator is a vibration motor that is actuated by a vibrationactuator based on a command from the microprocessor.
 21. An apparatus,comprising: a control module for communicating command and controlinstructions, the control module includes: an interactive unit foractivating the control module and for setting references; amicrocontroller with an associated program memory having fixed set ofinstructions, a non-volatile memory, and a Random Access Memory (RAM); atimer; communication unit that enables the control module to communicatewith the microcontroller and external devices; power source providespower to the control module and external devices;
 22. The apparatus asset forth in claim 21, wherein: the external device is a sensor and afeedback indicator.
 23. The apparatus as set forth in claim 21, wherein:the microcontroller activates all sensors together via a switch.
 24. Anapparatus, comprising: sensory indication modules intimately associatedwith a surface for detection of angle and acceleration, and includesindicators for communicating information in relation to the detectedangle and acceleration; control module for communicating command andcontrol instructions with the sensory indication modules; a power busand a single wire serial bus that couple the control module with sensoryindication modules.
 25. An apparatus, comprising: sensory indicationmodules intimately associated with vertebra for detection of angle andacceleration of vertebra, the sensory indication modules include: asensor for sensing the orientation of the vertebra in terms angle andacceleration in relation to a true vertical, and generating a firstanalog signal; a feedback indicator for communicating improper angularorientation of the vertebra with which the identified sensory indicationmodule is associated; a control module for communicating command andcontrol instructions with the sensory indication modules, the controlmodule includes: an interactive unit for activating the control moduleand for setting references. a microcontroller with an associated programmemory having fixed set of instructions, a non-volatile memory, and aRandom Access Memory (RAM); a timer; communication unit that enables thecontrol module to communicate with external devices; and power sourcethat provides power to the control module, the sensory indicationmodules, and external devices.
 26. An apparatus, comprising: sensoryindication modules that include a microprocessor; the microprocessorperiodically determines if there is a wake up command from amicrocontroller of a control module; if the microprocessor determinesthat there is no wake up command from the microcontroller of the controlmodule, the microprocessor reverts back to sleep mode; if themicroprocessor determines that there is a wake up command from themicrocontroller of the control module, the microprocessor is activated,which, in turn, activates a sensor for a first duration, and clearsreceiver buffer; the microprocessor determines if there is a new commandreceived from the microcontroller; if the microprocessor determines thatno new command is received from the microcontroller, the microprocessorreads angles of a vertebra through a sensor, saves the read angles, anddetermines if the first duration has expired; if the microprocessordetermines that the first duration has expired, the apparatus is enteredinto a low power sleep mode by the microcontroller of the controlmodule; if the microprocessor determines that the first duration has notexpired, the receiver buffer is cleared, and the microprocessordetermines if a new command is received from the microcontroller; if themicroprocessor determines that a new command is received from themicrocontroller, the microprocessor checks the received command ID todetermine if the received command from the microcontroller is intendedfor the sensor to which the received command is sent; if themicroprocessor determines that the command received from themicrocontroller is intended for the sensor to which the command is sent,the microprocessor determines if the command received is an angle querycommand; otherwise, the receiver buffer is cleared; if themicroprocessor determines that command received is an angle querycommand, the microprocessor sends the saved sensed angular orientationsto the microcontroller, and the receiver buffer is cleared; if themicroprocessor determines that command received is not the angle querycommand, the microprocessor determines if the command received is acommand to activate an indicator; if the microprocessor determines thatcommand received is a command to activate the indicator, a secondduration is set for activation of the indicator, the indicator isactivated for the second duration, and the microcontroller enters theapparatus into a low power sleep mode; if the microprocessor determinesthat command received is not a command to activate the indicator, themicroprocessor determines if the command received is a reset command; ifthe microprocessor determines that command received is a reset command,the microprocessor clears and resets all registers, and themicrocontroller enters the apparatus into a low power sleep mode.
 27. Anapparatus, comprising: a control module that includes a microcontroller,which is generally in a power save mode for a first adaptive timeperiod, with a duration of the first adaptive time period varyingdepending on responses from external devices; the microcontrollerperiodically determines if the first adaptive time period has expired;if the microcontroller determines that the first adaptive time periodhas not expired, the microcontroller determines if an interactive unithas been actuated for one of a first and second actuation durations,with the first actuation duration shorter than the second actuationduration; if microcontroller determines that the interactive unit hasnot been actuated for one of the first and second actuation durations,the microcontroller maintain the power save mode; if the microcontrollerdetermines that the interactive unit has been actuated for secondactuation duration while the first adaptive time period has not expired,the microcontroller deactivates the first adaptive time period, andplaces the apparatus to OFF mode; when the apparatus is OFF, ifmicrocontroller determines that the interactive unit has not beenactuated for one of the first and second actuation durations, themicrocontroller remains OFF; further, when the apparatus is OFF, if theinteractive unit has been actuated for second actuation duration, themicrocontroller is activated, recalls saved users preferences, andactivates the first adaptive time period; if the interactive unit hasbeen actuated for first actuation duration, the microcontroller onlyactivates the first adaptive time period, and enters the power savemode; if the microcontroller determines that one of the first adaptivetime period has expired and the interactive unit has been actuated forthe first actuation durations, the microcontroller forwards a firstcommand to external devices; the microcontroller further forwards afirst query to the external devices, and receives a first response tothe first query; the microcontroller determines if the first responsehas been received from all external devices; if the microcontrollerdetermines that the first response has been received from all externaldevices, the microcontroller determines if the interactive unit has beenactuated for the first actuation durations; if microcontrollerdetermines that the interactive unit has not been actuated for the firstactuation durations; the microcontroller determines if a user preferredreference is set; if microcontroller determines that user preferredreference is not set; an indicator is activated and the first adaptivetime period is modified for a longer duration, increasing the durationof the power save mode of the microcontroller; if microcontrollerdetermines that user preferred reference is set, the microcontrollercompares received responses with user preferred references; if receivedresponses are commensurate with user preferred references, the firstadaptive time period is modified for a longer duration, increasing theduration of the power save mode of the microcontroller, otherwise, anindicator is activated and the first adaptive time period is modifiedfor a shorter duration; if microcontroller determines that theinteractive unit has been actuated for the first actuation durations;the microcontroller sets received responses from external devices asuser preferred reference.
 28. The apparatus as set forth in claim 27,wherein: set user preferences are communicated externally for displayand analysis.
 29. The apparatus as set forth in claim 28, wherein:comparing the received responses with user preferred referencesincludes: obtaining a plurality of responses Data(Ta), Data(Tb), . . .Data(Tm) at different time intervals Ta, Tb, . . . Tm, with m an integerinterval; calculating an average AVG of the plurality of responsesobtained at different time intervals:AVG(Channel)=(Data(Ta)+Data(Ta)+ . . . +Data(Tm))/m; calculating simpledeviations from the average of the plurality of responses obtained atdifferent time intervals;Δ(Ta)=ABS(AVG(Channel)−Data(Ta))Δ(Tb)=ABS(AVG(Channel)−Data(Tb))Δ(Tm)=ABS(AVG(Channel)−Data(Tm)) determining the maximum deviation MAXDEV;MAX DEV (Channel)=MAX (Δ(Ta), Δ(Tb), . . . Δ(Tm)); repeat for everychannel; the microcontroller determines if the AVG(Channel) or the MAXDEV (Channel) are outside defined parameters, and if so, set the firstadaptive time period duration and disable the feedback indicators;otherwise, microcontroller determines if AVG(Channel) is outside theuser set preferences; if the microcontroller determines thatAVG(Channel) is outside the user set preferences, microcontrollerdetermines which specific parameter within AVG(Channel) is outside userset preference, and generates a unique indicator specifically associatedwith that parameter, and sets the first adaptive time period duration toa shorter duration; otherwise, set the first adaptive time periodduration to an average duration.